An Update on Tardive Dyskinesia

The authors review recent research on definition, diagnosis, neuropathophysiology, treatment, management, and factors that increase risk of tardive dyskinesia, a severe and often unremitting movement disorder associated with neuroleptic treatment. Supersensitivity of dopamine receptors is believed to be the cause of tardive dyskinesia, and treatment strategies have consisted of pharmacologic blockade of dopamine receptors, depletion of dopamine, and restoration of the balance between the dopaminergic system and the neurotransmitter systems that regulate it. Several experimental neuroleptics that do not appear to cause tardive dyskinesia may be approved for use in the United States, but for now preventive measures, such as wise prescription and gradual tapering of neuroleptics, as well as careful monitoring for symptoms of tardive dyskinesia are the clinician's best defense.